Colombia’s entry into Intervision 2025 was the celebrated Afro-Colombian singer Nidia Góngora, an artist revered for her powerful vocals and her deep commitment to preserving the musical traditions of the Pacific coast. She delivered a performance that was much more than music; it was a profound cultural message for the global audience.
The Road to Intervision: A Voice for the Ancestors and the Environment
Nidia Góngora is recognized as a living embodiment of the centuries-old traditions of Colombia's Pacific shoreline. Her artistic journey began with the guidance of her mother and community mentors, leading her to become a Latin Grammy nominee and the lead vocalist of the legendary group Canalón de Timbiquí. Beyond the stage, Góngora holds a degree in early childhood education and actively runs a music school, passionately teaching the next generation.
Her musical career, spanning over 20 years, transforms the unique cultural heritage of her homeland into contemporary art, blending ancestral rhythms like currulaos and bundes with modern sounds.
Selection and The Song's Message
Góngora was chosen for the contest after her profile and proposed music were presented to the Russian organizers. She revealed that a Russian jury selected her from a shortlist of three artists focused on traditional and authentic music, impressed by her commitment to indigenous roots.
Her chosen contest song, "En los Manglares" ("In the Mangrove Thickets"), carried a deeply personal and environmental message. Góngora wrote the song following the death of her two brothers—one from illness and another from violence(EFE).
Nidia Góngora’s Statement on her song and mission:
"In the suitcase that I take to the Intervision festival in Russia, the message that the world 'needs to hear' from those who have for generations interpreted the traditional music of the Colombian Pacific is encapsulated... I am very honored and prepared to represent my country."
She emphasized that the song is a spiritual dedication to the mangrove forests of the Pacific coast, which are considered "sanctuaries of life, resilience, and ancient wisdom" by Afro-Colombians, and a vital call to preserve them for ecological balance.
Contest Result and Life After Intervision
Nidia Góngora’s highly authentic and poignant performance of "En los Manglares" proved to be a critical success, earning a strong finish for Colombia in its debut year.
Colombia's 4th place finish was a major achievement. The result solidified her international standing and validated her mission to bring Afro-Colombian culture to the world.
Following her Intervision appearance, Góngora continued her cultural and artistic mission, with plans for a European tour (including stops in France and Spain) and a return to her work developing children's musical talents at her traditional music school, Canalón de Timbiquí, further ensuring the legacy of the Pacific's music endures.
Colombia's 4th place finish was a major achievement. The result solidified her international standing and validated her mission to bring Afro-Colombian culture to the world.
Following her Intervision appearance, Góngora continued her cultural and artistic mission, with plans for a European tour (including stops in France and Spain) and a return to her work developing children's musical talents at her traditional music school, Canalón de Timbiquí, further ensuring the legacy of the Pacific's music endures.
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